Seward Honors Oneonta "Woman of Distinction"

By Mark Boshnack

The Daily Star

ALBANY, 05/26/10 -- Years of service to her community have earned an Oneonta woman state recognition.

Marie Lusins-McLachlan was honored as a 2010 Woman of Distinction by state Sen. James L. Seward, R-Milford. It was given on Tuesday at an annual ceremony that included women from districts around the state. It was created to honor New York women who exemplify personal excellence, or who professional achievements or acts of courage, selflessness, integrity or perseverance serve as an example to all New Yorkers, according to a Seward media release.

“I’m very proud,” said Lusins-McLachlan speaking before she received the recognition. “I never thought it was even a possibility.”

 When she received a call from Seward about six weeks ago, “I was in disbelief,” she said. “I was overwhelmed.”

It will not change her dedication to the town of Oneonta and the causes that are important to her, she said.

This includes continuing her work with Oneonta Rotary where she has served as president in the mid-90’s, according to her resume. She served as Rotary District Governor in 2000-2001 and has received a couple of awards from the organization in the last few years for her efforts.

“Marie played a leading role in the growth of Oneonta, serving on the town board for two decades,” said Seward. She chose not to run for reelection last year.

“She has devoted a great deal of time and energy to helping others,” including establishing the Community Connections food bank  in 2000 and helping start the Oneonta Free Clinic around 2006.

“Marie is a real life trailblazer and I am extremely proud to honor her as a Woman of Distinction,” Seward said.

The complete story is on-line at The Daily Star.